Sunny smiles on games day

Trophy winners in the agricultural show and the home industries show with Cllr Caroline Shiers (far left) and committee president David Houston
Pic by David Phillips

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The 136th Strathardle Highland Gathering and Agricultural Show at Bannerfield, Kirkmichael, on Saturday was held in warm sunshine.

Games chieftain Sir Michael Nairn described the afternoon as well-supported and gave a special welcome to members of the Clan MacThomas from across the world and their chief, Andrew MacThomas of Finegand.

He said: “The gathering is the result of months of preparation and attention to detail by a small team of dedicated volunteer members of the committee.”

Local heavyweight games were held before the traditional march into Bannerfield led by Sir Michael, Coupar Angus Pipe Band and members of the Clan MacThomas Pipe Band – as well the Ems Highlander Pipes and Drums from Germany.

Madeline Stenbridge as a unicorn, Sarah Andrew, Kyle Ormerod as a cow, Taylor Doland as a roadworks supervisor, Sinead Ormerod as a cowgirl, and Logan Wilkson with his cousin James Thom as a marshal from Paw Patrol Pic by David Phillips

The Bannerfield Standard was carried by vice-president Alec Rattray, and the Clan MacThomas Standard by Chris Pye, in his role as acting banner man.

The trophy for the fancy dress competition was donated by Sarah Andrew in memory of her sisters Kitty and Claire. The winner was Madeline Stenbridge, who dressed as a unicorn.

There was continued disappointment for spectators who have enjoyed the local tug o’ war contest between teams representing Blackwater and Strathardle for the Robertson Cup. Differences in the interpretation of residential qualifications are still unresolved.

Members of the Ems Highland Pipes and Drums who visited from Germany Pic by David Phillips

But while the men’s open contests were pale compared with recent years, the ladies brought some entertaining competition – with the Kirkmichael Beginners beating Strathardle Inn 2-0 to win the Ivy Bailey Trophy.

The afternoon programme of competitions and entertainment also included Highland dancing, heavyweight events, and races for children and young adults. Other attractions included a parade around the arena by vintage tractors and cars and the pipes and drums.

Sir Michael Nairn leads the procession into the arena Pic by David Phillips

Trophies and awards won in the agricultural and industrial sections were handed over by Councillor Caroline Shiers, who was presented with a floral arrangement by Annie Pyne and Grace Norwood, P1 pupils at Kirkmichael Primary School.

The gathering was brought to a close at around 5.45pm with musical cars for the Robert Sample Trophy.